SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

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SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Agriculture in Tamil Nadu :

Geographical and Demographic Context:

 Climate Zone: Semi-dry subhumid to dry humid tropics.

 Geographical Area: 1.30 lakh sq. km (11th largest state in India).
 Population (2011 Census): 7.21 crore (7th most populous state).
 National Contribution:
o Area: 4% of India's total.
o Population: 6% of India's total.
o Water Resources: 3% of India's total.

Land Holdings:

 Total Landholders: 79.38 lakh.

 Cultivable Area: 59.71 lakh hectares.
 Marginal and Small Farmers:
o Comprise 93% of total landholders.
o Control 62% of the cultivable land.
 Medium and Large Farmers:
o Constitute 7% of total landholders.
o Manage 38% of the cultivable land.

Average Land Holding Size:

 Tamil Nadu: 0.75 hectare per holding.

 National Average: 1.08 hectare per holding.

Observations:

 Tamil Nadu's small average landholding size and a predominance of

marginal and small farmers highlight the state's need for tailored agricultural
policies to support small-scale farming and enhance productivity.

Agricultural Statistics of Tamil Nadu (2022-23)

Key Land Use Data:

 Total Geographical Area: 130.33 lakh hectares.

 Net Cropped Area: 48.37 lakh hectares.
 Gross Cropped Area: 62.60 lakh hectares.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

 Area Sown More Than Once: 14.23 lakh hectares.

Cropping Intensity:

 Formula: (Gross Cropped Area ÷ Net Cropped Area) × 100.

 Cropping Intensity: 129.40%.

Observations:

 The state's cropping intensity of 129.40% reflects effective utilization of

agricultural land through multiple cropping practices.
 Higher cropping intensity indicates efforts to maximize agricultural output
despite limited land resources.

Comparative Analysis of Land Use Pattern in Tamil Nadu (2020-21 vs. 2022-
23)

S. 2020- 2022-
Land Use Category Change Remarks
No 21 23
+1.05 lakh Increase in cropping
1 Gross Cropped Area 61.55 62.60
ha area
Current Fallow -0.03 lakh
2 8.93 8.90 Slight decrease
Lands ha
-0.17 lakh
3 Other Fallow Lands 18.65 18.48 Reduced fallow lands
ha
+0.04 lakh
4 Net Cropped Area 48.33 48.37 Marginal increase
ha
Cropping Intensity Improved land
5 127.35 129.40 +2.05%
(%) utilization
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Key Insights:

 Increase in Cropping Intensity: The rise from 127.35% to 129.40%

highlights improved agricultural practices and land utilization efficiency.
 Reduction in Fallow Lands: Both current and other fallow lands have
marginally decreased, contributing to increased agricultural activity.
 Increment in Gross and Net Cropped Areas: Enhanced land coverage for
cultivation reflects the state's focus on expanding agricultural production.

Conclusion:

The data shows a positive trend in land use efficiency and agricultural
development in Tamil Nadu, with reduced fallow lands and increased cropping
areas contributing to higher productivity.

Rainfall and Irrigation in Tamil Nadu :

Rainfall Statistics:

 Annual Average Rainfall: 919.8 mm.

 Rainfall Received in 2023: 1,035 mm (above the annual average).

Water Source-Wise Net Area Irrigated (2022-23):

Availability Net Area Irrigated % of Net Area

Source
(Nos) (lakh ha) Irrigated
Canals 2,241 6.83 23.39%
Tanks 41,123 3.99 13.66%
Tube Wells &
3,71,084 5.42 18.56%
Bore Wells
Open Wells 14,69,659 12.92 44.25%
Others 45,129 0.04 0.14%
Total - 29.20 lakh ha 100%
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Insights:

1. Dominant Irrigation Sources:

o Open Wells: Irrigate the largest share (44.25%) of the net irrigated
area.
o Tube Wells & Bore Wells: Together with open wells, account for
63% of irrigated cultivated area.
2. Canal Irrigation:
o Contributes to 23.39% of the net irrigated area, supported by large
water sources like dams and reservoirs.
3. Tank Irrigation:
o Represents 13.66% of net irrigated area, a traditional source still
playing a vital role.

Conclusion:

Tamil Nadu relies heavily on groundwater resources (wells and bore wells) for
irrigation, supplemented by surface water sources like canals and tanks. The
above-average rainfall in 2023 further underscores the importance of effectively
managing these water resources for sustainable agricultural growth.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Increasing Area, Production, and Productivity of Agricultural

Crops in Tamil Nadu :
Achievements in Food Grain Production:

1. Trends in Food Grain Production:

o 2020-21: 108.24 lakh MT.
o 2021-22: 119.97 lakh MT (significant increase due to welfare
schemes).
o 2022-23: 116.91 lakh MT (record production despite natural
calamities).
o 2023-24: 118.02 lakh MT (as per Third Advance Estimate).
2. Challenges Overcome:
o Natural disasters like unseasonal rainfall, extreme monsoon events,
and cyclones (e.g., Michaung cyclone).
o Deficit rainfall during the southwest monsoon.
3. Sustained Growth:
o Food grain production consistently exceeded 116 lakh MT for three
consecutive years.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Action Plan for 2024-25:

Area (lakh Production (lakh Productivity

Crop
ha) MT) (Kg/Ha)
Rice 20.20 81.81 4,050
Millets 9.95 39.09 3,928
Pulses 10.00 8.73 873
Total Food
40.15 129.63 -
Grains
Oilseeds 5.80 16.28 2,800
Cotton 1.78 4.61* 440**
Sugarcane 1.75 231.00 132***

Note:

 *Cotton production is measured in lakh bales (170 Kg of lint per

bale).
 **Cotton productivity is in terms of lint.
 ***Sugarcane productivity is in MT/Ha.

Key Insights:

1. Food Grain Dominance: Rice and millets are the leading crops in terms of
production and productivity.
2. Diverse Crop Focus: Tamil Nadu emphasizes a balanced approach with
oilseeds, cotton, and sugarcane alongside food grains.
3. High Productivity Goals: Advanced measures aim to sustain high
productivity levels despite climatic challenges.

Conclusion:

Through robust planning, resilient agricultural schemes, and effective disaster

management, Tamil Nadu continues to achieve record food grain production and
aims for further growth in 2024-25 with an integrated crop development strategy.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Efforts by the Tamil Nadu Government for Agricultural

Development (2023-24) :
Key Initiatives:

1. Mettur Dam Opening:

o Opened on the scheduled date of June 12, 2023, by the Honourable
Chief Minister.
o Ensured timely water availability for Kuruvai cultivation.
2. Kuruvai Package Scheme:
o Allocated ₹75.95 crore for 2023-24 to support Kuruvai cultivation.
o Integrated efforts of desilting rivers and canals, improving irrigation
facilities.
o Resulted in Kuruvai cultivation on 5.599 lakh acres, the highest in 48
years.
3. Kuruvai Special Package Scheme (2024):
o Proposed allocation of ₹78.67 crore for 2024.
o Integrated implementation across Agriculture, Agricultural
Engineering, and Rural Development Departments.

Long-term Visions Assigned by the Honourable Chief Minister:

1. Increase in Net Cropped Area:
o Grew from 119.37 lakh acres in 2020-21 to 119.50 lakh acres in 2022-
23.
o Achieved through innovative schemes from the Agriculture Budgets.
2. Doubling Double Cropped Area:
o Increased from 32.65 lakh acres in 2020-21 to 35.15 lakh acres in
2022-23.
o Attained by implementing targeted schemes and activities.

3. Enhanced Productivity Goals:

o Aim to position Tamil Nadu among the top three states in productivity
for:
 Foodgrains
 Coconut
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

 Sunflower
 Sugarcane
 Cotton
o Focused efforts underway for achieving this objective.

Summary:

The Tamil Nadu government’s efforts in 2023-24 highlight a comprehensive

approach to improving agriculture through timely interventions, innovative
schemes, and long-term vision planning.

Status of Tamil Nadu in Agricultural Productivity at the National

Level
Based on Agriculture Statistics at a Glance-2022, Tamil Nadu holds the
following ranks in productivity for major crops:

Rank Crops

First Place Oilseeds, Groundnut, Sugarcane, Ragi

Second Place Maize, Coconut

Third Place Rice, Minor Millets

This performance demonstrates Tamil Nadu's strong standing in agricultural

productivity across diverse crop categories, contributing significantly to India's
agricultural sector.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Priority Schemes in Agriculture: Chief Minister’s Mannuyir Kaathu

Mannuyir Kaappom Scheme (CM MK MKS) :
Objective:

The scheme aims to enhance soil fertility, promote sustainable agriculture, and
ensure food security by addressing issues such as soil nutrient depletion and over-
reliance on chemical inputs.

Financial Allocation:

 Total allocation: Rs. 206 crore.

 Implementation through 22 components.

Key Components and Allocations:

1. Enhancing Soil Fertility:

o Green manuring in 2 lakh acres.
o Allocation: Rs. 20 crore for 2 lakh farmers.
2. Vermicomposting:
o Provision of Vermibeds to 10,000 farmers (2 Vermibeds per farmer).
o Permanent vermicompost tanks for 3,560 farmers.
o Allocation: Rs. 11 crore.
3. Soil Testing and Health Management:
o Soil testing in 2,482 Village Panchayats under Kalaignarin All Village
Integrated Agricultural Development Programme.
o Issue of Soil Health Cards for 3.33 lakh farmers.
o Allocation: Rs. 10.375 crore.
4. Reclamation of Degraded Soils:
o Reclamation of Alkaline and Acidic soils (37,500 acres each).
o Allocation: Rs. 22.5 crore.
5. Bio-fertilizer Distribution:
o Liquid bio-fertilizers for 10 lakh acres.
o Allocation: Rs. 7.5 crore.
6. Neem and Bio-insecticidal Plant Promotion:
o Free distribution of 10 lakh Neem tree saplings.
o Promotion of Adathoda and Nochi by distributing 50 lakh saplings.
o Allocation: Rs. 3 crore.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

7. Conservation of Traditional Crop Varieties:

o Distribution of traditional paddy seeds for cultivation on 1,000 acres.
o Production of 200 MT of traditional paddy seeds for cultivation on
10,000 acres.
o Traditional millet and pulse varieties to be developed.
o Allocation: Rs. 50 lakh.
8. Organic Farming Promotion:
o Establishment of one Model Organic Farming Plot in each block.
o Support for 725 organic farming clusters.
o Setting up 100 organic input units.
o Total Allocation: Rs. 28.38 crore.
9. Integrated Farming Systems:
o Formation of 14,000 Integrated Farming Units to combine crop
cultivation with livestock, apiculture, and vermicomposting.
o Allocation: Rs. 42 crore.
10. Rainfed Crop Cultivation:

 Distribution of seeds to cover 3 lakh acres in rainfed areas.

 Allocation: Rs. 36 crore.

11. Home Gardens:

 Promotion of nutritious fruit crops (banana, papaya, moringa) in home

gardens.
 Allocation: Rs. 4 crore.

12. Beekeeping Development:

 Establishment of a honey testing and processing center in Kanyakumari with

training facilities.
 Allocation: Rs. 3.6 crore.

13. Climate Smart Villages:

 Development of villages to demonstrate climate-resilient agricultural

practices.
 Allocation: Rs. 1.48 crore.

14. Soil Microbiome Research:

 Research on microbial consortia for improving soil health.

SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

 Allocation: Rs. 1.39 crore.

15. Uzhavar Angadis (Farmers' Markets):

 Establishment of 100 outlets for direct sale of agricultural produce and

value-added products.
 Allocation: Rs. 5 crore.

Significance of CM MK MKS:

1. Promotes soil health restoration and sustainable farming.

2. Reduces dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
3. Preserves traditional crop varieties and bio-diversity.
4. Enhances farmers’ income through organic and integrated farming.
5. Encourages climate-smart practices and community participation.

This comprehensive approach aligns with Tamil Nadu’s vision for sustainable
agricultural development and improved farmer welfare.

Agricultural Development Initiatives :

Kalaingarin All Village Integrated Agricultural Development Programme :

Objective:
Holistic development of rural villages through integrated agricultural activities,
ensuring progress at the grassroots level for overall national growth.

Key Features:

1. Targeted Villages:
o Implemented in panchayats identified under the Anaithu Grama
Anna Marumalarchi Thittam by the Rural Development and
Panchayat Raj Department.
2. Core Activities:
o Formation of fallow land clusters.
o Creation of water sources with energization using electricity or solar
energy.
o Installation of micro-irrigation systems.
o Planting perennial fruit or tree crops.
o Cultivation of short-duration agricultural crops.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

3. Resource Allocation:
o 80% of financial allocations from Agriculture-Farmers Welfare
Department schemes are dedicated to selected village panchayats to
create significant impact.
4. Budget for 2024-25:
o The programme will be implemented in 2,482 village panchayats
with a financial outlay of Rs. 176.15 crore.

One Village, One Crop Scheme :

Objective:
Promote specialized farming practices at the village level to improve agricultural
productivity, rural development, and farmer awareness.

Key Features:

1. Implementation:
o To be executed in 15,280 revenue villages during 2024-25.
o Focused on cultivating one crop per village over an area of 5-10 acres.
2. Activities Covered:
o Land preparation techniques.
o Use of high-yielding seed varieties and seed treatments.
o Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) for paddy and other critical
crops.
3. Awareness and Training:
o Demonstrations to educate farmers on best practices.
o Identification of beneficial and harmful insects through fixed survey
plots.
o Recommendations for effective plant protection measures.

Expected Outcomes:

 Increased crop productivity.

 Enhanced awareness among farmers about sustainable agricultural practices.
 Improved efficiency in managing pests and nutrients.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Significance of These Initiatives

1. Village-Centric Growth:
o Empowers rural areas by focusing on tailored agricultural practices
and resource optimization.
o Supports the Doubling Farmers' Income Vision.
2. Sustainability:
o Promotes water conservation, renewable energy use, and micro-
irrigation.
o Encourages crop diversification and integrated farming systems.
3. Knowledge Dissemination:
o Demonstrations and surveys ensure practical knowledge transfer to
farmers, enhancing long-term resilience.
4. Economic and Social Impact:
o Increases agricultural profitability and rural employment
opportunities.
o Strengthens community involvement in sustainable development.

These programs collectively aim to transform Tamil Nadu's agricultural landscape

while fostering rural prosperity.

Tamil Nadu Millet Mission (Five-Year Scheme) :

Overview:
The Tamil Nadu Millet Mission is a long-term initiative launched in the
Agriculture Budget for 2023-24. The mission aims to promote the cultivation of
millets and increase their production in the state.

Duration:

 Five-year period from 2023-24 to 2027-28.

Key Objectives:

1. Increase Area and Production of Millets:

o The mission seeks to expand the cultivation area of millets and
enhance their production in Tamil Nadu.
2. Focus on Millet Special Zones:
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

o The scheme will be implemented in two designated millet special

zones, covering 25 districts where millet cultivation is already
significant.

Financial Allocation:

 Rs. 65 crore allocated for the implementation of the Tamil Nadu Millet
Mission in 2023-24.
 The mission will continue with the same budget allocation of Rs. 65 crore
for 2024-25.

Expected Outcomes:

1. Increased Millet Area:

o Expansion of millet cultivation in the identified districts.
2. Improved Millet Production:
o Enhanced yields and productivity through targeted interventions.
3. Promote Nutritional Benefits:
o Millets are a source of important nutrients and will be promoted for
their health benefits.
4. Economic and Environmental Impact:
o Supports sustainable agriculture by promoting drought-resistant and
climate-resilient crops like millets.

This mission is an important step in improving food security, promoting

sustainable agriculture, and enhancing the income of farmers in Tamil Nadu.

State Agricultural Development Scheme :

1. Alternative Crop Cultivation in Kuruvai Season
o Objective: Promote the cultivation of less water-consuming crops like
millets, pulses, and oilseeds as alternatives to paddy during the
Kar/Kuruvai and Sornavari seasons.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 Area: 50,463 acres.
 Financial outlay: Rs. 8.48 crore.
 Crops cultivated:
 Millets: 23,510 acres (producing 9,404 MT).
 Pulses: 21,158 acres (producing 5,290 MT).
 Oilseeds: 5,795 acres (producing 6,259 MT).
 Beneficiaries: 43,341 farmers.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

o Plan for 2024-25:

 Area: 1 lakh acre.
 Financial outlay: Rs. 12 crore.
2. Making Youth into Agri-Entrepreneurs
o Objective: Encourage young agricultural graduates to establish Agri-
based businesses.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 Financial assistance of Rs. 1 lakh per graduate.
 88 graduates received financial assistance totaling Rs. 88 lakh.
o Plan for 2024-25:
 Continued implementation with a financial outlay of Rs. 1
crore.
3. Nammazhvar Award for Best Organic Farmer
o Objective: Encourage organic farming by recognizing and rewarding
outstanding organic farmers.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 Three farmers received the award with a financial allocation
of Rs. 5.22 lakh.
o Plan for 2024-25:
 Continued implementation with the same allocation of Rs. 5.22
lakh.
4. Traditional Paddy Seed Bank
o Objective: Preserve the ethnic purity of traditional paddy varieties by
establishing seed banks.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 11 seed banks were established with an allocation of Rs. 33
lakh.
5. Additional 20% Subsidy for Small and Marginal Farmers of Scheduled
Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST)
o Objective: Reduce the financial burden on small and marginal SC/ST
farmers by providing an additional 20% subsidy on high-value
schemes.
o Implementation (2022-23):
 Rs. 5.90 crore subsidy extended to 1,726 SC farmers and 165
ST farmers.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 Rs. 19.08 crore subsidy extended to 5,509 SC farmers and 653
ST farmers.
o Plan for 2024-25:
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

 Continued subsidy program with a financial outlay of Rs. 18

crore.

These initiatives are aimed at boosting agricultural productivity, encouraging

sustainable farming practices, and supporting the welfare of farmers, especially
those from marginalized communities.

Digital Agriculture :
1. Uzhavar Mobile Application
o Purpose: The "Uzhavar" app is developed to provide farmers with 24
services, including:
 Agricultural technologies, input stock status, market prices,
weather forecasts, water levels, and government subsidy
schemes.
o Reach:
 Over 17 lakh farmers have downloaded the app.
o Features:
 Facilitates access to crucial information, improving decision-
making in farming.
2. GRAINS Portal
o Purpose:
 "GRAINS" (Grower Online Registration of Agriculture Inputs
System) helps farmers avail benefits from various departments
easily.
o Land and Crop Data Integration:
 All land parcels in Tamil Nadu are linked to farmer details and
geo-referenced, capturing real-time data about crops grown.
o Benefits:
 Helps improve crop productivity by providing land- and crop-
specific technologies.
 Aids in estimating crop damage, facilitating faster
compensation during natural disasters.
 Integration of farmers' land ownership, crop data, and banking
information allows streamlined access to government services
and reduces document submission.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Village Level Agricultural Development Groups (VLADG) :

1. Formation of VLADG
o Objective: Form groups of 25-50 farmers per village panchayat,
aiming to boost agricultural development at the village level.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 2,504 VLADGs were formed in village panchayats under the
Kalaignarin All Village Integrated Agricultural
Development Programme (KAVIADP).
 77,000 farmers received training in innovative agricultural
technologies, with an expenditure of Rs. 2.5 crore.
o Plan for 2024-25:
 Formation of VLADGs in 2,482 village panchayats, with
trainings and an allocation of Rs. 2.48 crore.

Uzhavar Aluvalar Thodarbu Thittam (UATT) :

1. Extension Services through UATT
o Objective: Provide agricultural extension services to disseminate
modern farming technologies and scheme benefits to farmers.
o Implementation:
 Extension functionaries visit village panchayats regularly.
 10 farmers (including 2 SC/ST) are trained per village
panchayat. These farmers then train others in the community.
o Mobile Software Application (UATT App):
 Extension functionaries use the UATT App to upload visit
details and information on the technologies provided to farmers.
 A dashboard tracks and monitors these visits at the block,
district, and state levels.
 Farmers can view the visit details, including the names and
contact information of extension functionaries, on the Uzhavar
app.

These initiatives are integral to modernizing agricultural practices, providing

farmers with digital tools, and enhancing their access to services and information.
By integrating technology at the grassroots level, Tamil Nadu aims to improve
agricultural productivity, sustainability, and farmer welfare.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Schemes for Encouraging Millet Cultivation in Tamil Nadu :

1. Food and Nutrition Security (FNS): Nutri-Cereals
o Objective:
 To increase the area and production of Nutri-Cereals in Tamil
Nadu.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 The scheme is being implemented in 15 districts with a
financial allocation of Rs. 30.20 crore.
o Future Plan (2024-25):
 The scheme will continue with similar financial support in the
coming year.
2. Food and Nutrition Security (FNS): Maize
o Objective:
 To increase the area and production of Maize in Tamil Nadu.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 The scheme is being implemented in 9 districts with a financial
allocation of Rs. 1.63 crore.
o Future Plan (2024-25):
 The scheme will be continued for the next year to promote
maize cultivation.
3. National Agricultural Development Programme: Ploughing Subsidy
o Objective:
 To encourage millet cultivation by providing financial support
for ploughing.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 The scheme is being implemented in the millet special zones of
25 districts with a financial outlay of Rs. 1.80 crore.
o Future Plan (2024-25):
 The scheme will be continued with the same financial
allocation to further support millet farmers.

These schemes are designed to enhance millet cultivation, promote food security,
and provide nutritional benefits through increased production and consumption of
Nutri-Cereals, maize, and other coarse grains.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Schemes for Promoting Pulses and Agricultural Extension in Tamil

Nadu :
1. Food and Nutritional Security (FNS) - Pulses & Targeting Rice Fallow
Areas (TRFA)
o Objective:
 To increase the area and production of pulses, aiming for self-
sufficiency.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 The Food and Nutrition Security (Pulses) scheme was
allocated Rs. 28.32 crore, and the Targeting Rice Fallow
Areas (TRFA) - Pulses scheme received Rs. 2.96 crore.
o Future Plan (2024-25):
 Both schemes will continue with a financial allocation of Rs.
35.38 crore and Rs. 3.35 crore, respectively, focusing on
increasing the production of pulses like blackgram, greengram,
horsegram, and cowpea.
2. Transplanted Redgram Scheme
o Objective:
 To enhance the productivity of redgram (pulses) and encourage
its cultivation.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 The scheme allocated Rs. 12 crore, leading to an increase in
productivity from 1,038 kg/ha (2022-23) to 1,118 kg/ha (2023-
24).
o Future Plan (2024-25):
 The scheme will incentivize redgram planting in 30,000 acres
with a budget of Rs. 10.80 crore, alongside a Rs. 17.50 crore
allocation for area expansion in 70,000 acres.
3. Tamil Nadu State Seed Development Agency (TANSEDA)
o Objective:
 To supply high-quality seeds to farmers to boost agricultural
yield.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 26,347 MT of certified seeds were produced and distributed to
farmers.
o Future Plan (2024-25):
 33,400 MT of quality seeds will be procured and distributed.
o Activities:
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

TANSEDA is involved in seed production through 33 State

Seed Farms, 6 State Oilseed Farms, and one State Pulses
Multiplication Farm.
4. Seed Village Programme under Sub-Mission on Seeds and Planting
Materials (SMSP)
o Objective:
 To encourage farmers to produce quality seeds for higher yield.
o Implementation (2023-24):
 Rs. 32 crore was allocated to distribute foundation and certified
seeds of paddy, millets, pulses, and oilseeds to farmers at
subsidized rates.
o Future Plan (2024-25):
 The scheme will continue, benefiting farmers with subsidized
quality seeds.
5. Agricultural Extension Centres (AECs)
o Objective:
 To provide integrated services like seed distribution,
agricultural inputs, plant protection advice, and extension
services.
o Structure:
 There are 880 Agricultural Extension Centres (AECs),
consisting of 383 main centres at the block level and 497 sub-
centres at the firka level.
o Upgradation:
 220 AECs have been upgraded to Integrated Agricultural
Extension Centres (IAECs), and new buildings are under
construction for 32 IAECs.
 205 sub-centres have been upgraded, with new buildings being
constructed for 99 sub-centres.

These schemes aim to promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve

productivity, and empower farmers with the necessary tools, resources, and support
for enhanced agricultural outcomes.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Fertiliser and Quality Control in Tamil Nadu :

1. Fertiliser Usage and Allocation
o Annual Fertiliser Consumption:
 Tamil Nadu utilizes approximately 22 lakh MT of chemical
fertilisers annually. Fertilisers are crucial for maintaining crop
productivity and ensuring the state's agricultural success.
o Encouragement for Sustainable Fertiliser Use:
 The state encourages the use of green manures, bio-fertilisers,
and organic fertilisers to maintain soil health, reduce input
costs, and ensure sustainable farming practices.
o Government of India Allocation for Kharif 2024:
 The Government of India has allocated the following fertilisers
for Tamil Nadu:
 4.91 lakh MT of Urea
 1.40 lakh MT of DAP
 1.04 lakh MT of Potash
 4.54 lakh MT of complex fertilisers
2. Quality Control Laboratories
o The Department ensures the availability of quality fertilisers, bio-
fertilisers, and insecticides to farmers through a network of quality
control laboratories. These include:
 14 Fertilizer Control Laboratories (FCL)
 12 Pesticides Testing Laboratories (PTL)
 3 State Pesticides Testing Laboratory-cum-Coding Centres
 2 Organic Fertilizer Testing Laboratories (OFTL)
 Bio-Fertiliser Quality Control Laboratory (BFQCL) and
Bio-Control Agents Quality Control Laboratory
(BCAQCL) at Tiruchirapalli
 Central Control Laboratory at Pudukkottai

These laboratories ensure that only high-quality fertilisers and agricultural inputs
reach the farmers, thereby safeguarding the environment and promoting healthy
agricultural practices.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Soil Health Management Initiatives in Tamil Nadu :

1. Soil Testing Laboratories
o Role in Agriculture: Soil testing is crucial for crop-specific fertiliser
application and soil improvement activities, which increase
productivity and farmers' income.
o Infrastructure:
 36 Soil Testing Laboratories and 16 Mobile Soil Testing
Laboratories are operational in Tamil Nadu.
 These labs analyze soil samples and irrigation water samples,
and the results are provided to farmers through Soil Health
Cards.
o Recent Developments (2023-24):
 New soil testing facilities have been set up in Mayiladuthurai
(lab) and Thanjavur, Tirunelveli, Cuddalore, Vellore,
Coimbatore (mobile labs).
 A total of 3.92 lakh Soil Health Cards have been distributed to
farmers under various schemes like Kalaignnar All Village
Integrated Agricultural Development Programme and
Micro Irrigation Scheme.
 45,400 irrigation water samples were also tested.
o Plans for 2024-25:
 3.33 lakh soil samples will be tested under the National
Agricultural Development Programme focused on Soil
Health and Soil Fertility.
2. Tamil Mannvalam Website
o Launched: 28th June 2023 by the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
o Features:
 Farmers can access detailed information on soil health by
selecting their survey number and using geo-referencing.
 The website provides data on land type, soil type,
groundwater classification, soil alkalinity and acidity, and
available soil nutrients.
 Recommendations for fertiliser usage and crop suitability are
also available.
 As of now, data for 40 lakh survey numbers has been
uploaded, and additional data from farmers' soil tests will also
be included.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

3. Micronutrient Mixture Production

o Purpose: To address micronutrient deficiencies in the soil, improving
crop yields.
o Production Unit: Based in Pudukottai, it produces 14 types of
essential micronutrient mixtures.
o Annual Production: 3,300 MT of micronutrient mixtures for
distribution to farmers.
o Plan for 2024-25: Continue production of 3,300 MT to maintain soil
health.
4. Bio-Fertilisers Production Units
o Importance: Soil microbes play a critical role in maintaining soil
fertility and health.
o Annual Production: 12.10 lakh litres of liquid bio-fertilisers are
produced each year across 22 Bio-fertilizer Production units.
o Plan for 2024-25: Continue with the same production capacity of
12.10 lakh litres.
5. Sub-Mission on Agricultural Extension (SMAE)
o Objective: To support state extension programs and improve farming
practices through coordinated efforts across various departments.
o Key Agencies Involved:
 Departments of Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal
Husbandry, Fisheries, Agricultural Engineering, and Tamil
Nadu Agricultural University.
 Agricultural Technology Management Centres (ATMA)
have been established at the district level to plan and implement
agricultural activities.
o ATMA Activities in 2023-24:
 Trainings, exposure visits, demonstrations, and farm schools
were organized, benefitting 4,15,235 farmers with an
expenditure of Rs. 52.35 crore.

These comprehensive soil health and agricultural extension schemes aim to

improve productivity, maintain soil fertility, and ensure sustainable farming
practices in Tamil Nadu.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Farmers Facilitation Centres in Tamil Nadu :

1. Farmers Training Centres (FTC)
o Purpose: These centres provide periodic training to farmers, farm
women, and conveners on best farming practices and the latest
agricultural technologies.
o Number of Centres: 22 FTCs operate across the state.
o 2023-24 Financial Allocation: Rs. 17 lakh
o Future Plans: The FTCs will continue to provide training in the year
2024-25.
2. State Agricultural Extension Management Institute (STAMIN),
Kudumianmalai
o Purpose: The institute trains extension officials and ministerial staff
in the latest agricultural technologies, administration, extension
management, and computer skills.
o 2023-24 Financial Allocation: Rs. 19.62 lakh
o Training Details: Around 750 personnel were trained in the year
2023-24.
o Future Plans: This scheme will continue in 2024-25.
3. State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute
(SAMETI), Kudumianmalai
o Purpose: SAMETI trains agriculture and allied department officials
in various agricultural extension programs, including the PGDAEM
course, DAESI course, Insecticide Management for pesticide
dealers, Skill Training of Rural Youth (STRY), and Certified
Farm Advisor course.
o 2023-24 Training Details:
 330 technical officers were trained.
o 2024-25 Plans: The training program will continue in the coming
year.
4. Water Management Training Centre (WMTC), Madurai
o Purpose: WMTC provides training on irrigation and water-saving
technologies.
o Training Details:
 132 field functionaries and 615 farmers were trained at a cost
of Rs. 20 lakh.
o Future Plans: The scheme will continue in 2024-25.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Disaster Management in Agriculture :

1. Support for Agricultural Losses Due to Natural Disasters
o Agriculture in Tamil Nadu is often affected by natural disasters such
as floods, droughts, and cyclones, impacting crop production and
productivity.
o The state government supports affected farmers by providing
agricultural input subsidies under the State Disaster Response
Fund (SDRF).
2. 2023 SDRF Relief:
o Amount Sanctioned: Rs. 284.94 crore
o Farmers Benefitted: 3.96 lakh farmers
o Area Affected: 7 lakh acres
o Reason for Relief: The SDRF input subsidy was released due to
damage caused by hailstorm, insufficient irrigation for Kuruvai
paddy, drought in maize production, Michaung cyclone, and
heavy rainfall in southern districts.

Formation of Agriculture Zonal Committees for Farmers' Welfare :

1. Zonal Committees:
o Purpose: The State Government has established seven Agriculture
Zonal Committees to address and resolve agricultural issues, natural
calamities, pollution, land acquisition for new projects, and other
farmer-related concerns.
o Structure:
 The committees are chaired by Directors of Agriculture and
Horticulture and include members from various departments
such as Agricultural Engineering, Tamil Nadu Agricultural
University, Public Works Department, Pollution Control
Board, and farmers.
o Meetings in 2023-24: Zonal committee meetings were held in
Southern Zone and High Rainfall Zone.
o Future Plans: These zonal committees will continue to operate in
2024-25.

These initiatives play a significant role in enhancing agricultural productivity,

training officials and farmers, supporting disaster relief, and addressing various
agricultural challenges in Tamil Nadu.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

Key Agricultural Schemes in Tamil Nadu :

1. Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme
o Introduction: Launched in 1998, the KCC scheme aims to provide
timely credit support to farmers through Nationalized, Co-operative,
and Regional Rural Banks.
o Eligibility: Individual farmers and tenant farmers are eligible to avail
of benefits under this scheme.
o Loan Details: Farmers are provided collateral-free loans of up to Rs.
1.6 lakh, based on land holdings and crop requirements.
o Impact: A total of 32 lakh Kisan Credit Cards, including renewals,
have been issued to farmers.
o Future Plans: The scheme will continue into the 2024-25 financial
year.
2. Providing Three-Phase Free Electricity to Farmers
o Overview: Since 1990, the Tamil Nadu government has been
providing free three-phase electricity to farmers to support
agricultural activities.
o Electricity Connections:
 Total Connections Issued: 23.56 lakh connections have been
provided, including 1 lakh connections in 2021-22, 50,000 in
2022-23, and 18,975 in 2023-24.
o Financial Allocation: An amount of Rs. 6,990.79 crore was spent in
2023-24 to provide free electricity to farmers.
o Future Plans: This scheme will continue in 2024-25.
3. Tamil Nadu Irrigated Agriculture Modernization Project (TNIAMP)
o Purpose: TNIAMP, supported by the World Bank, focuses on
enhancing productivity, promoting climate resilience, improving
water management, and avoiding monocropping in irrigated
agriculture.
o Target Area: The project is being implemented in 51 selected sub-
basins across Tamil Nadu, starting from 2017-18.
o 2024-25 Plans: The project will continue in four phases with
interventions like crop demonstrations, Farmer Field Schools, Seed
Villages, Integrated Nutrient Management, Agricultural
Mechanization, Capacity building, and the Model Village
programme.
o Financial Allocation: Rs. 9.13 crore is allocated for TNIAMP in
2024-25.
SEYON STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC GROUP I & II MAINS

These schemes play a pivotal role in providing financial support, infrastructure,

and technological advancements to improve agricultural productivity and the
welfare of farmers in Tamil Nadu.

Key Agricultural Welfare Schemes in Tamil Nadu :

1. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
o Objective: To provide financial support to farmers in case of crop
loss due to unforeseen events like floods, droughts, cyclones, and
heavy rainfall.
o Implementation: The scheme was implemented with a 60:40 co-
insurance model across 14 clusters in 37 districts of Tamil Nadu
during 2023-24.
o Key Updates:
 The cut-off date for crop enrolment has been extended for
Samba paddy, rice fallow cotton, sugarcane, blackgram, and
green gram crops, in alignment with the Government of India.
 The Tamil Nadu government has settled a premium share of
Rs. 439.31 crore with insurance companies.
 Compensation Claims: Rs. 104.27 crore was settled to 67,332
farmers for losses due to prevented sowing and yield losses in
various districts (like Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai,
and Tirunelveli).
 The scheme is set to continue in 2024-25 with a budget
allocation of Rs. 1,775 crore.
2. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
o Objective: To provide income support of Rs. 6,000 per year to
eligible farmer families owning cultivable lands.
o Implementation: The support is transferred in three equal
installments directly to the bank accounts of eligible farmers.
o Progress:
 A total of Rs. 10,435.87 crore has been disbursed to 21.39 lakh
farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in sixteen
installments.
o Future Plans: The scheme will continue in 2024-25.

These schemes aim to enhance the financial security of farmers, ensuring they
receive support in times of crop failure and aiding their income through direct
transfers.